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Content tagged 'caravans'

Went over to the local dealers because my tap broke and had a look around, but quickly when I saw Swifts marked up at £28k ok they were nice, leather interior and all that but £28,000!That is a hell of a lot of money when did they rocket in price?

Since the production of the first recreational caravans 130 years ago, there have been numerous adaptations to the typical trailer model and its usability and affordability. After their original conception, cheaper and more commercial trailers have been developed over the years so that they can be appreciated by as wide a demographic as possible. Have a look at this infographic from Salop Leisure for a brief view of their design history.

Nowadays, manufacturing companies are becoming more daring and are experimenting with the physical restrictions and aesthetics of the iconic vehicle. This has led to a whole range of caravans with astonishing futuristic features.

Here is my pick of three caravans that could be making waves in the industry!The Sealander

Source: supercompressor.comThis is a one of a kind caravan that takes ‘multi-functional’ to a whole new level. This modern marvel can not only traverse across land, but thanks to its electric motor and amphibious design it can also successfully venture into water as well! You’ll be able to dive into a whole new set of camping opportunities with this vehicle.FeaturesCompact size: 12.8 x 5.25ft with an internal space of 5.1 x 6.56ftUltra-light fiberglass exterior means that the caravan weighs just 380kg and can be towed easilyElectric 5hp motor to navigate shallow waters (and also power your on-board devices)Waterproof design: LED lights, double bottom to protect against sinking, corrosive-proof materialsVariety of modules on offer, including the standard utilities and an optional porter looInterior design can be fully personalised to suit your tastes and needsRoof can be removed and the inside layout can be alteredBenches fit six comfortably and may be rearranged into a bunk bed or double bed

What do you think about this concept? Is it about time we had adaptable vehicles such as this or is it just a glorified boat?At EUR 15,000, I love the idea and the diverse camping potentials it offers but the price tag sinks my enthusiasm! For the same cost you could even buy a separate boat and trailer!Perhaps there’s a reason that this is the only amphibious caravan to have ever gone into mass production…

The Knaus Tabbert Caravisio

Source: pursuitist.comGerman company Knaus Tabbert believe that The Caravisio is an exciting new concept caravan that demonstrates what the future of this industry could look like. While it’s not amphibious like The Sealander, the modern Caravisio draws on yachts for design inspiration and is host to an extensive range of incredible hi-tech features.

FeaturesLarge size: 29.5ft long x 8.2ft wideHi-tech app controls lighting, sound, heating, air suspension and even the glass frostingFinger print-activated biometric technology for extra securitySmart glass dual-paned sliding doorFits two single beds or one King-size doubleRear wall can be transformed into a giant cinema screenFiberglass shell exterior with a cone-shape design to make it more aerodynamicSpacious bathroom with intelligent touchscreen water management systemFold-out deck and remote-controlled deck roofSleek and stylish interior design

The makers believe that this is the space-age vehicle ‘of the future’, citing declining numbers of caravans in Europe in their judgement. It was brought to realisation through a collaboration between over 20 different companies and industry experts.The company must have faith in The Caravisio, as the luxurious trailer cost them £88,000 to design, and the resulting prototype model costs a whopping £500,000!While The Caravisio is exciting in its demonstration of the technological potential that a vehicle can have, its ability to radically alter the caravan industry may be somewhat limited by its costs and select market.Knaus Tabbert even admit that it “does not claim to be reproducible nor suitable for series production”. Guess most of us will just have to stick to our average manually-controlled caravan for the time being!

The Mehrzeller Concept Caravan

Source: theawesomer.comThis caravan is pioneering change in the standard models and designs of a trailer by allowing the customer to select their own multicellular layout. The idea is to focus on personalised living and on creating the best mobile home experience possible. If one thing’s for sure, it certainly makes for an eye-catching sight on the roads!FeaturesSize: Approx. 17ft long x 7.5ft wideSandwich style fiberglass and polyurethane foam walls provide good insulationComputer-configured design and layout, unique for every customerExterior can be tailored with a selection of graphicsStylish interior features including flat-screen TV and high spec. bathroom and kitchen facilitiesLeather upholstery and recessed fittings

Concept vehicles began to emerge in the 21st Century and this particular model was introduced to us in 2008 by Austrian architects. It is being praised as one of the most original travel trailers on the current market and there are hopes that it will encourage a new generation of customized mobile living to suit our fast-moving age.The gemstone-like geometric design of this caravan’s interior means that it could become a little claustrophobic, as a significant amount of space is wasted to create the look and the trailer can only afford two windows. On the other hand, this new angle on camping is sure to breathe some life into the caravan industry and inspire designers and manufacturers to experiment more.Do you find that the design of this trailer is too outlandish or are you enthusiastic about seeing something original on the market?

Since the production of the first recreational caravans 130 years ago, there have been numerous adaptations to the typical trailer model and its usability and affordability. After their original conception, cheaper and more commercial trailers have been developed over the years so that they can be appreciated by as wide a demographic as possible. Have a look at this infographic from Salop Leisure for a brief view of their design history.

Nowadays, manufacturing companies are becoming more daring and are experimenting with the physical restrictions and aesthetics of the iconic vehicle. This has led to a whole range of caravans with astonishing futuristic features.

Here is my pick of three caravans that could be making waves in the industry!The Sealander

Source: supercompressor.comThis is a one of a kind caravan that takes ‘multi-functional’ to a whole new level. This modern marvel can not only traverse across land, but thanks to its electric motor and amphibious design it can also successfully venture into water as well! You’ll be able to dive into a whole new set of camping opportunities with this vehicle.FeaturesCompact size: 12.8 x 5.25ft with an internal space of 5.1 x 6.56ftUltra-light fiberglass exterior means that the caravan weighs just 380kg and can be towed easilyElectric 5hp motor to navigate shallow waters (and also power your on-board devices)Waterproof design: LED lights, double bottom to protect against sinking, corrosive-proof materialsVariety of modules on offer, including the standard utilities and an optional porter looInterior design can be fully personalised to suit your tastes and needsRoof can be removed and the inside layout can be alteredBenches fit six comfortably and may be rearranged into a bunk bed or double bed

What do you think about this concept? Is it about time we had adaptable vehicles such as this or is it just a glorified boat?At EUR 15,000, I love the idea and the diverse camping potentials it offers but the price tag sinks my enthusiasm! For the same cost you could even buy a separate boat and trailer!Perhaps there’s a reason that this is the only amphibious caravan to have ever gone into mass production…

The Knaus Tabbert Caravisio

Source: pursuitist.comGerman company Knaus Tabbert believe that The Caravisio is an exciting new concept caravan that demonstrates what the future of this industry could look like. While it’s not amphibious like The Sealander, the modern Caravisio draws on yachts for design inspiration and is host to an extensive range of incredible hi-tech features.

FeaturesLarge size: 29.5ft long x 8.2ft wideHi-tech app controls lighting, sound, heating, air suspension and even the glass frostingFinger print-activated biometric technology for extra securitySmart glass dual-paned sliding doorFits two single beds or one King-size doubleRear wall can be transformed into a giant cinema screenFiberglass shell exterior with a cone-shape design to make it more aerodynamicSpacious bathroom with intelligent touchscreen water management systemFold-out deck and remote-controlled deck roofSleek and stylish interior design

The makers believe that this is the space-age vehicle ‘of the future’, citing declining numbers of caravans in Europe in their judgement. It was brought to realisation through a collaboration between over 20 different companies and industry experts.The company must have faith in The Caravisio, as the luxurious trailer cost them £88,000 to design, and the resulting prototype model costs a whopping £500,000!While The Caravisio is exciting in its demonstration of the technological potential that a vehicle can have, its ability to radically alter the caravan industry may be somewhat limited by its costs and select market.Knaus Tabbert even admit that it “does not claim to be reproducible nor suitable for series production”. Guess most of us will just have to stick to our average manually-controlled caravan for the time being!

The Mehrzeller Concept Caravan

Source: theawesomer.comThis caravan is pioneering change in the standard models and designs of a trailer by allowing the customer to select their own multicellular layout. The idea is to focus on personalised living and on creating the best mobile home experience possible. If one thing’s for sure, it certainly makes for an eye-catching sight on the roads!FeaturesSize: Approx. 17ft long x 7.5ft wideSandwich style fiberglass and polyurethane foam walls provide good insulationComputer-configured design and layout, unique for every customerExterior can be tailored with a selection of graphicsStylish interior features including flat-screen TV and high spec. bathroom and kitchen facilitiesLeather upholstery and recessed fittings

Concept vehicles began to emerge in the 21st Century and this particular model was introduced to us in 2008 by Austrian architects. It is being praised as one of the most original travel trailers on the current market and there are hopes that it will encourage a new generation of customized mobile living to suit our fast-moving age.The gemstone-like geometric design of this caravan’s interior means that it could become a little claustrophobic, as a significant amount of space is wasted to create the look and the trailer can only afford two windows. On the other hand, this new angle on camping is sure to breathe some life into the caravan industry and inspire designers and manufacturers to experiment more.Do you find that the design of this trailer is too outlandish or are you enthusiastic about seeing something original on the market?

• Two unique Bailey Unicorn Valencia ‘Getaway’ models used for filming• Behind the scenes photos posted on Bailey’s social media: Twitter (@BaileyofBristol), Pinterest (Bailey of Bristol) and Instagram (@BaileyofBristol)• ‘Golden Years’ film expected to be released in 2016

A Bailey caravan is playing a central role in a new film, ‘Golden Years’, alongside an all-star cast featuring some of Britain’s best-loved actors, such as Sue Johnston, Una Stubbs and Simon Callow, which is currently being filmed in and around Bailey’s home town, Bristol.

The actress Virginia McKenna and actor Bernard Hill play a couple with a Bailey Unicorn who refuse to fade away into their declining years, or accept the injustice of old age, so after the loss of their pensions in the financial crisis, decide to fight back and are forced into a life of crime robbing banks to get their money back to help save their community and local bowls club.

Described as a heist film with a comedic core, the caravan, one of the best-selling, top of the range Bailey Unicorn models, features prominently as the leading couple use it as a base for their activities.

With filming taking place in Bristol and nearby Gloucestershire, as a local leisure vehicle manufacturer, Bailey was delighted to be invited to supply two caravans, one with part of its roof removed for filming interior scenes in the studio, plus an Approach Autograph motorhome for the crew to use while on location.

A unique and cleverly appropriate model name was created for the Bailey Unicorn used in the film – the Bailey Unicorn Valencia ‘Getaway’. This popular model, with an end washroom and fixed double bed layout, proved perfect for filming the scenes inside the caravan as the new Unicorn features more space in the large front seating area and central kitchen area, providing plenty of room for the actors and crew, while the unique panoramic front window also provided an unobstructed view in and out of the caravan for the cameras.

A selection of behind-the-scenes photos taken during the filming can already be seen on the following Bailey social media feeds: Twitter (@BaileyofBristol), Pinterest (Bailey of Bristol) and Instagram (@BaileyofBristol).

Golden Years has been written by TV presenter Nick Knowles, Jeremy Sheldon and writer/director John Miller, with producer Mark Foligno from Moli Films Entertainment who has worked on other films such as The King’s Speech and I am Slave.

Nick Howard, Managing Director of Bailey of Bristol commented: “Bailey is really proud to be working with a British film and such a strong cast, especially as it is all being created locally in Bristol, and we can’t wait to see the finished results when it’s released in the UK next year.”

More information about the Bailey Unicorn range is available from www.baileyofbristol.co.uk, plus full details of all Bailey’s other caravans and motorhomes, the unique Alu-Tech construction and retailer network, as well as latest news, videos, parts direct service and owners club. For all the latest Bailey news and updates, please follow Bailey on Twitter (@BaileyofBristol), Pinterest (Bailey of Bristol) and Instagram (@BaileyofBristol).

• Two unique Bailey Unicorn Valencia ‘Getaway’ models used for filming
• Behind the scenes photos posted on Bailey’s social media: Twitter (@BaileyofBristol), Pinterest (Bailey of Bristol) and Instagram (@BaileyofBristol)
• ‘Golden Years’ film expected to be released in 2016

A Bailey caravan is playing a central role in a new film, ‘Golden Years’, alongside an all-star cast featuring some of Britain’s best-loved actors, such as Sue Johnston, Una Stubbs and Simon Callow, which is currently being filmed in and around Bailey’s home town, Bristol.

The actress Virginia McKenna and actor Bernard Hill play a couple with a Bailey Unicorn who refuse to fade away into their declining years, or accept the injustice of old age, so after the loss of their pensions in the financial crisis, decide to fight back and are forced into a life of crime robbing banks to get their money back to help save their community and local bowls club.

Described as a heist film with a comedic core, the caravan, one of the best-selling, top of the range Bailey Unicorn models, features prominently as the leading couple use it as a base for their activities.

With filming taking place in Bristol and nearby Gloucestershire, as a local leisure vehicle manufacturer, Bailey was delighted to be invited to supply two caravans, one with part of its roof removed for filming interior scenes in the studio, plus an Approach Autograph motorhome for the crew to use while on location.

A unique and cleverly appropriate model name was created for the Bailey Unicorn used in the film – the Bailey Unicorn Valencia ‘Getaway’. This popular model, with an end washroom and fixed double bed layout, proved perfect for filming the scenes inside the caravan as the new Unicorn features more space in the large front seating area and central kitchen area, providing plenty of room for the actors and crew, while the unique panoramic front window also provided an unobstructed view in and out of the caravan for the cameras.

A selection of behind-the-scenes photos taken during the filming can already be seen on the following Bailey social media feeds: Twitter (@BaileyofBristol), Pinterest (Bailey of Bristol) and Instagram (@BaileyofBristol).

Golden Years has been written by TV presenter Nick Knowles, Jeremy Sheldon and writer/director John Miller, with producer Mark Foligno from Moli Films Entertainment who has worked on other films such as The King’s Speech and I am Slave.

Nick Howard, Managing Director of Bailey of Bristol commented: “Bailey is really proud to be working with a British film and such a strong cast, especially as it is all being created locally in Bristol, and we can’t wait to see the finished results when it’s released in the UK next year.”

More information about the Bailey Unicorn range is available from www.baileyofbristol.co.uk, plus full details of all Bailey’s other caravans and motorhomes, the unique Alu-Tech construction and retailer network, as well as latest news, videos, parts direct service and owners club. For all the latest Bailey news and updates, please follow Bailey on Twitter (@BaileyofBristol), Pinterest (Bailey of Bristol) and Instagram (@BaileyofBristol).

The new range will be unveiled to the public for the first time at The Lawns (Cottingham, 6th-7th September).

The changes have been implemented in line with Lunar’s ‘Core’ philosophy - an approach to caravan design and manufacture that considers and responds to socioeconomics and aims to eliminate a caravanner’s need to compromise.

In Ariva/Quasar, new ‘Kassis’ soft furnishings are complemented by a new ‘Montana Oak’ wood finish and dark stone ‘touch’ work top laminate. The washrooms have also been restyled with new vanity units and a larger shelf above the window for more storage options.

The new season will also see the launch of a six berth family layout, the Quasar 586. This new model will be unveiled at the October NEC show and will feature fixed double bunk beds, a spacious front lounge, side dinette and side washroom.

Stellar/Lexon models all feature new ‘Kyla’ soft furnishings and new ‘Montana Oak’ wood finish. The new dark stone ‘touch’ work top laminate with new lift-up kitchen flap work co-ordinates perfectly with the new gloss cream kitchen locker doors. Key highlights include the introduction of the Truma ISO-Therm which complements the Combi blown air system by delivering a curtain of warm air, which circulates evenly around the caravan.

New for the Lexon range is the four berth Lexon 590 which features fixed single beds with a middle washroom, comfortable front lounge and well-equipped kitchen.

The Clubman/Delta models have taken inspiration from the recent limited edition Clubman Saros. Highlights include the new Sky-view roof light with LED perimeter lighting and gloss cream locker doors in the lounge and bedroom area. New ‘Sarona’ soft furnishings and new ‘Montana Oak’ wood finish are complemented by a new light ‘touch’ work top laminate and new dimmable LED over locker lighting. In revised washroom there is a new contemporary styled vanity unit and curved pelmet shelf.

The new range will be unveiled to the public for the first time at The Lawns (Cottingham, 6th-7th September).

The changes have been implemented in line with Lunar’s ‘Core’ philosophy - an approach to caravan design and manufacture that considers and responds to socioeconomics and aims to eliminate a caravanner’s need to compromise.

In Ariva/Quasar, new ‘Kassis’ soft furnishings are complemented by a new ‘Montana Oak’ wood finish and dark stone ‘touch’ work top laminate. The washrooms have also been restyled with new vanity units and a larger shelf above the window for more storage options.

The new season will also see the launch of a six berth family layout, the Quasar 586. This new model will be unveiled at the October NEC show and will feature fixed double bunk beds, a spacious front lounge, side dinette and side washroom.

Stellar/Lexon models all feature new ‘Kyla’ soft furnishings and new ‘Montana Oak’ wood finish. The new dark stone ‘touch’ work top laminate with new lift-up kitchen flap work co-ordinates perfectly with the new gloss cream kitchen locker doors. Key highlights include the introduction of the Truma ISO-Therm which complements the Combi blown air system by delivering a curtain of warm air, which circulates evenly around the caravan.

New for the Lexon range is the four berth Lexon 590 which features fixed single beds with a middle washroom, comfortable front lounge and well-equipped kitchen.

The Clubman/Delta models have taken inspiration from the recent limited edition Clubman Saros. Highlights include the new Sky-view roof light with LED perimeter lighting and gloss cream locker doors in the lounge and bedroom area. New ‘Sarona’ soft furnishings and new ‘Montana Oak’ wood finish are complemented by a new light ‘touch’ work top laminate and new dimmable LED over locker lighting. In revised washroom there is a new contemporary styled vanity unit and curved pelmet shelf.

The 2015 model range from Lunar Caravans will on show at The Lawns, Cottingham in East Yorkshire on 6th and 7th September. A new Quasar model will also be unveiled by Lunar at The Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014 (NEC, BIRMINGHAM 14th – 19th October).

Caravans and Charabancs will explore the untold legacy of this devastating conflict, charting how accelerated social and technological developments in wartime led to a revolution in leisure motoring in the decades that followed. A programme of community events, exhibitions and social media campaigns will encourage the public to engage with previously unseen aspects of the National Motor Museum’s Designated Photographic Collection and that of The Caravan Club Collection.

HLF funding will also enable the Museum to purchase and preserve a unique private collection of over 400 historic photographs and postcards featuring charabancs, the forerunner to the long distance coach, which offered affordable day trips to the British public. This collection will be integral in telling the little-known story of the First World War’s influence on post-war leisure motoring.

“As the war ended, those that returned home often did so with new ambitions and a bonus in their back pocket. Many were introduced to motor vehicles on the battlefield, and some were inspired to put their new-found skills to good use in peacetime”, explains Curator of The Caravan Club Collection, Angela Willis.

“Ex-war vehicles and surplus parts were sold off by the government at knock-down prices. These became the building blocks of charabancs and trailer caravans, fulfilling the demand for leisure journeys into the next decade.”

The National Motor Museum’s Director of Collections Andrea Bishop said: “The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund is supporting this community-based project which enables us to participate in the First World War commemorations. We look forward to engaging with new audiences as we explore and develop our Designated Collections, and to working with all project partners, including The Caravan Club.”

For more information visit www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/caravans_charabancs

1. A 1922 Piggott caravan with an Armstrong Siddeley. This pioneering lightweight trailer caravan featured canvas walls, inspired by aircraft design. 2. A group pictured with a Daimler chassis charabanc owned by the Royal Blue company of Bournemouth, late 1920s.

Caravans and Charabancs will explore the untold legacy of this devastating conflict, charting how accelerated social and technological developments in wartime led to a revolution in leisure motoring in the decades that followed. A programme of community events, exhibitions and social media campaigns will encourage the public to engage with previously unseen aspects of the National Motor Museum’s Designated Photographic Collection and that of The Caravan Club Collection.

HLF funding will also enable the Museum to purchase and preserve a unique private collection of over 400 historic photographs and postcards featuring charabancs, the forerunner to the long distance coach, which offered affordable day trips to the British public. This collection will be integral in telling the little-known story of the First World War’s influence on post-war leisure motoring.

“As the war ended, those that returned home often did so with new ambitions and a bonus in their back pocket. Many were introduced to motor vehicles on the battlefield, and some were inspired to put their new-found skills to good use in peacetime”, explains Curator of The Caravan Club Collection, Angela Willis.

“Ex-war vehicles and surplus parts were sold off by the government at knock-down prices. These became the building blocks of charabancs and trailer caravans, fulfilling the demand for leisure journeys into the next decade.”

The National Motor Museum’s Director of Collections Andrea Bishop said: “The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund is supporting this community-based project which enables us to participate in the First World War commemorations. We look forward to engaging with new audiences as we explore and develop our Designated Collections, and to working with all project partners, including The Caravan Club.”

For more information visit www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/caravans_charabancs

1. A 1922 Piggott caravan with an Armstrong Siddeley. This pioneering lightweight trailer caravan featured canvas walls, inspired by aircraft design.
2. A group pictured with a Daimler chassis charabanc owned by the Royal Blue company of Bournemouth, late 1920s.

Linthorpe Beds has served Teesside (North East England) for over 20 years and now operate from two huge stores in Middlesbrough and Stockton-on-Tees, as one of the largest independent bed specialists in the region.

Equally they’re also one of the UK’s leading online specialists in the supply of custom size mattresses and divan bases. On their website (www.linthorpebeds.co.uk) they offer an extensive range of ‘made to measure’ sizes, in a variety of styles and materials to suit every need.

As well as custom sizes, they are also now able to provide ‘L-Shaped’ mattresses and ones with the corners cut off too – great for caravans, campervans and houseboats.

Basic children’s mattresses start from just £69.95 with the popular Slimline Sussex (in 2’6” x 5’9”) coming in at £164.95. Children’s bunk beds often come with a guard rail to prevent the child from falling out of bed. Typical 9-10 inch deep mattresses are often too thick, so the Slimline Sussex at 7 inches is ideal.

The Chatsworth, which is the entry level pocket sprung mattress doesn’t break the bank either. Custom sizes based on a double are priced at £299.95.

Many products are available for free next day delivery and can all be viewed by simply clicking on the desired size from the grid. There’s no need to wait for a quote and products can be purchased instantly online.

Linthorpe Beds has served Teesside (North East England) for over 20 years and now operate from two huge stores in Middlesbrough and Stockton-on-Tees, as one of the largest independent bed specialists in the region.

Equally they’re also one of the UK’s leading online specialists in the supply of custom size mattresses and divan bases. On their website (www.linthorpebeds.co.uk) they offer an extensive range of ‘made to measure’ sizes, in a variety of styles and materials to suit every need.

As well as custom sizes, they are also now able to provide ‘L-Shaped’ mattresses and ones with the corners cut off too – great for caravans, campervans and houseboats.

Basic children’s mattresses start from just £69.95 with the popular Slimline Sussex (in 2’6” x 5’9”) coming in at £164.95. Children’s bunk beds often come with a guard rail to prevent the child from falling out of bed. Typical 9-10 inch deep mattresses are often too thick, so the Slimline Sussex at 7 inches is ideal.

The Chatsworth, which is the entry level pocket sprung mattress doesn’t break the bank either. Custom sizes based on a double are priced at £299.95.

Many products are available for free next day delivery and can all be viewed by simply clicking on the desired size from the grid. There’s no need to wait for a quote and products can be purchased instantly online.

Caravans go free on both our Dover-Calais and Dover-Dunkirk routes on selected dates and departures during March. What’s more motorhomes will travel for the same price as a standard car.Cars can travel from just £29 each way & your caravan goes for freeMotorhomes go for the same price as a carAvailable on selected sailings between 3 & 27 MarchBook by 27 MarchAvailable for one way and return bookingsTo find out more and book please visit DFDS Caravans go free

Caravans go free on both our Dover-Calais and Dover-Dunkirk routes on selected dates and departures during March. What’s more motorhomes will travel for the same price as a standard car.Cars can travel from just £29 each way & your caravan goes for freeMotorhomes go for the same price as a carAvailable on selected sailings between 3 & 27 MarchBook by 27 MarchAvailable for one way and return bookings

Bailey of Bristol is proud to have worked closely with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Bath for many years to help develop the design and construction of its leisure vehicles with a view to optimising the towing performance of its caravans.

The University of Bath has become widely regarded as the foremost independent authority in towing stability research, and Bailey used its latest scale model on its stand at The Caravan and Camping show to give live demonstrations of how a caravan's weight distribution is vital for safer towing - which many visitors described as "really useful" and "priceless".

The model showed how a trailer's stability varied according to the location of heavier items, such as gas bottles or batteries. It demonstrated the importance of positioning heavier items near the middle of a caravan, as this proved to be the best weight distribution pattern for superior stability by improving the trailer's ability to recover from external forces affecting the control of the outfit, such as cross wind or buffeting from other road traffic.

As a result of the research Bailey has made some key changes to the design and layout of its caravans to help make them inherently more stable and, as a result, safer on the road. This process began with the development of the Alu-Tech construction system which, with the absence of the heavy plastic cloaking panels found at the front and rear of conventionally built caravans, has a greater proportion of weight concentrated in the centre of the vehicle.

More recently, this thought process was taken a stage further by moving gas bottle lockers and battery boxes to around the axle, which not only enhances stability but also has the added benefit of helping deliver lower caravan nose weights required for many of today's (and tomorrow's) lighter towcars.

"We are really proud of the improvements we've made as a result of our partnership with the University of Bath. While there's been some great advances in towing stability devices in recent years, it would be wrong to rely on them, so we want to ensure our caravans are designed to give a superior, and safer, towing performance." said Nick Howard, Managing Director, Bailey of Bristol.

"Of course, it is still essential for a caravan to be safely matched with an appropriate weight of towcar. Using a stability device is always a sensible precaution and gives added peace of mind, which is why they're available on all our caravans, but we hope they should only be needed in extreme circumstances," he continued.

More details on The Caravan Club & Bailey sponsored research into trailer stability by the University of Bath please visit www.towingstabilitystudies.co.uk.

Bailey of Bristol is proud to have worked closely with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Bath for many years to help develop the design and construction of its leisure vehicles with a view to optimising the towing performance of its caravans.

The University of Bath has become widely regarded as the foremost independent authority in towing stability research, and Bailey used its latest scale model on its stand at The Caravan and Camping show to give live demonstrations of how a caravan's weight distribution is vital for safer towing - which many visitors described as "really useful" and "priceless".

The model showed how a trailer's stability varied according to the location of heavier items, such as gas bottles or batteries. It demonstrated the importance of positioning heavier items near the middle of a caravan, as this proved to be the best weight distribution pattern for superior stability by improving the trailer's ability to recover from external forces affecting the control of the outfit, such as cross wind or buffeting from other road traffic.

As a result of the research Bailey has made some key changes to the design and layout of its caravans to help make them inherently more stable and, as a result, safer on the road. This process began with the development of the Alu-Tech construction system which, with the absence of the heavy plastic cloaking panels found at the front and rear of conventionally built caravans, has a greater proportion of weight concentrated in the centre of the vehicle.

More recently, this thought process was taken a stage further by moving gas bottle lockers and battery boxes to around the axle, which not only enhances stability but also has the added benefit of helping deliver lower caravan nose weights required for many of today's (and tomorrow's) lighter towcars.

"We are really proud of the improvements we've made as a result of our partnership with the University of Bath. While there's been some great advances in towing stability devices in recent years, it would be wrong to rely on them, so we want to ensure our caravans are designed to give a superior, and safer, towing performance." said Nick Howard, Managing Director, Bailey of Bristol.

"Of course, it is still essential for a caravan to be safely matched with an appropriate weight of towcar. Using a stability device is always a sensible precaution and gives added peace of mind, which is why they're available on all our caravans, but we hope they should only be needed in extreme circumstances," he continued.

More details on The Caravan Club & Bailey sponsored research into trailer stability by the University of Bath please visit www.towingstabilitystudies.co.uk.

A supersonic car and a Bailey caravan may not appear to have much in common, but they made a joint appearance on The Caravan Club stand on the opening day of The Caravan and Camping Show last week because they both come from Bristol and feature advanced engineering in their design and construction to deliver superior performance on the road.

The BLOODHOUND SSC (supersonic car) and a new Bailey Pursuit 430-4 caravan were joined by Caravan Club member Wing Commander Andy Green OBE, current holder of the World Land speed record and the first person to break the sound barrier. He talked about the research involved in designing a car aimed to achieve speeds of 1,000mph, how caravans play an important role as a base during testing, and how the car and caravan were both proud to be developed in Bristol using the latest British technology.

Bailey, in the form of an Approach SE 760 motorhome, and the BLOODHOUND SSC have shared the same stage before when they were both chosen to appear on the BBC Top Gear programme showcasing the best of British motor vehicle manufacturing and engineering. The feature was filmed on The Mall in central London, and the result was a typically 'chest-thumping' endorsement for the contribution that Britain has and continues to make to the global motor industry.

Like the BLOODHOUND project, Bailey has also pursued a path of engineering excellence through the development of its Alu-Tech construction system. Introduced five years ago, this patented technology creates leisure vehicles that are more robust, more durable, safer to tow and yet lighter than those produced using conventional methods, while also giving greater protection against the elements.

When you consider that these all these benefits of ownership were achieved without a cost or a weight penalty, thus making it accessible to everybody, you can begin to see why the Alu-Tech construction system is seen by many as the most significant breakthrough in leisure vehicle design technology for thirty years. To date, based upon a proven record of performance in extreme conditions as far afield as the European Alps and the Australian Outback, 30,000 caravans and motorhomes have now been built using the Alu-Tech construction system.

After meeting Wing Commander Andy Green OBE, Nick Howard, Managing Director, Bailey of Bristol said: "It was really inspiring to meet Andy and hear more about the scale and technical details of the Bloodhound project to set a new land speed record. He clearly shares our passion for advanced engineering and took a keen interest in the design and lightweight construction of our Alu-Tech leisure vehicles".

For more information about the latest Bailey caravans or motorhomes, to find your nearest Bailey retailer, or to subscribe to the email newsletter service, visit www.baileyofbristol.co.uk, call 0117 966 5967 or email marketing@baileyofbristol.co.uk.

For the latest news updates, you can also follow Bailey on @BaileyofBristol

Can you believe that it's a year since we opened Ebor and Tyneside Leisure World! We are celebrating our Birthday in April and would love it if you could share in our celebrations!

Vicky

***** IT’S OUR BIRTHDAY! *****

The Leisure World Group is celebrating the 1st Birthday of Ebor and Tyneside Leisure World

Three Events at all our Leisure World Sites from Friday 5th until Monday 8th April 2013

Come along and join us for FREE food, drink and entertainment as well as some FANTASTIC deals and demonstrations from the top caravan and motorhome manufacturers in the country.

Why don’t you have a look at our Exclusive ‘Signature Range’ – manufactured by The Swift Group?
http://www.leisureworldgroup.com/blog/signature_caravan/

Maybe you would like to see the unveiling of the Bailey Pegasus GT65 at Ebor Leisure World?

Elddis will also be launching EXCLUSIVE SHOW OFFERS just for us (and you)!

Come along for a Warm Leisure World Welcome from the Friendly Family Firm. It’s going to be FUN for the whole family so don’t miss out!

Also join us on April 5th ‘til 8th … at Catterick Caravans Leisure World’s Motorhome Event. View our great selection of both new and used Motorhomes. Gary will be on hand with his Motorhome team to answer all your queries and to help you purchase the perfect Motorhome for your needs.

Check out our Events page on Facebook for all up-to-date Show information: https://www.facebook.com/events/482941045095157/
Click on the link in our Blog for your Exclusive Show Voucher: http://www.leisureworldgroup.com/blog/shows/